8-aminoquinoline that is metabolized to reactive intermediates generating oxidative stress within protozoal cells, disrupting mitochondrial function. Active against tissue-stage (hypnozoite) parasites and gametocytes. Used for Hepatozoon and babesiosis adjunct.
At a glance
Class
8-Aminoquinoline Antiprotozoal
Storage
Store at room temperature, protect from light
Dosing
Part of combination protocol for Hepatozoon americanum (primaquine + TMP-sulfa +
Used for feline cytauxzoonosis (combined with atovaquone/azithromycin)
Frequency
Once or per protocol
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Safety
PCV/hematocritReticulocyte countMethemoglobinCBCClinical response
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →Interactions
No documented interactions.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions
›What is Primaquine?
Primaquine is a 8-aminoquinoline antiprotozoal used in pets. 8-aminoquinoline that is metabolized to reactive intermediates generating oxidative stress within protozoal cells, disrupting mitochondrial function. Active against tissue-stage (hypnozoite) parasites and gametocytes. Used for Hepatozoon and babesiosis adjunct.
›What is Primaquine used for in pets?
Primaquine is used in veterinary medicine for: Part of combination protocol for Hepatozoon americanum (primaquine + TMP-sulfa +; Used for feline cytauxzoonosis (combined with atovaquone/azithromycin).
›What is the Primaquine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Primaquine is typically dosed as follows — Part of combination protocol for Hepatozoon americanum (primaquine + TMP-sulfa +: 0.5 mg/kg PO q24h. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Primaquine dose for cats?
For cats, Primaquine is typically dosed as follows — Used for feline cytauxzoonosis (combined with atovaquone/azithromycin): 0.5 mg/kg IM Once or per protocol. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Primaquine need a prescription?
Yes. Primaquine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet.
Find a vet near you →References
References
The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.
Textbooks & handbooks — 5
- Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
- Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
- Merck Veterinary Manual
- NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
- Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)
Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
- AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
- ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
- RECOVER CPR Guidelines
Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2
- EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
- JVIM FAT CAT Study
Regulatory & approvals — 1
- CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)
Databases — 1
- Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database